Valerie Mukabayire, a true reflection of Rwanda beauty

Editor, This letter is with reference to an interview carried by The New Times of Valerie Mukabayire, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide, a story carried under “Mukabayire has kept the Genocide widow’s candle burning (April 9 2015) Allow me, at the outset, to congratulate Ms. Mukabayire on being elected as president of Avega Agahozo, a national association of widows of the Genocide, formed two decades ago in 1995. It was depressing to read this very sad but true story of Mukabayire and how, despite seeing her loved husband shot in cold blood right before her very eyes, she cared so lovingly not just for her own three children, but also for the widowed Françoise Kagoyire, and for so many others who were orphaned during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. God has blessed this great nation with immense natural beauty—the verdant hills, valleys, scenic lakes, beautiful beaches, rain forests, exotic flora and fauna and even a model city. It is the women of Rwanda, however, who had to bear the worst brunt, the humility and the endless pain of the merciless acts of violence and killings experienced during those dark days. So, it is women like Valerie Mukabayire and so many others who are a true reflection of Rwanda’s beauty. As we Remember, Unite and Renew during this Kwibuka21, we do resolve that “Never Again” should such brutality be allowed to take place anywhere in the world again. Rwanda is a glowing example of resilience and fortitude. It has proved to the world that where there is a will there is surely a way. In conclusion, please allow me to extend my best wishes to Avega Agahozo and the many similar organisations that are committed to making Rwanda and this world a far better place to live in. Clarence Fernandes

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Valerie Mukabayire, a true reflection of Rwanda beauty